We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Tracie Sudesh about their original and creative Buffing Kit design work. Tracie Sudesh is an award-winning industrial designer, that makes our world a better place with their original buffing kit works.
Tracie Sudesh ("TS") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Autopokets Buffing Kit. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
TS : While detailing cars, it is common to place all buffing cloths over each of the detailing products. This frustrating practise, made me realize that every polish, wax, interior, trims, rims, tire, products required more than one cloth. Inconspicuously, I gathered insights from other users who shared the same pain points. I visited stores internationally and researched online, yet I failed to find any existence of a product that could overcome this experience.
TS : My main focus was to provide a solution to keep the cleaning cloths, sponges and chamois organized. I wanted to eliminate the frustrating experience while detailing cars as it is very easy to get all these cloths mixed up for the various products.
TS : To have it manufactured and distributed to various chain retailers and to be a pioneer in developing such a product.
TS : It took about 9 months.
TS : The idea was a response to find a solution based on user experience hence, it was important to keep the product compact and lightweight in order to capture the essence of the design and its functionality. Yes, I was inspired to pursuit a solution.
TS : It would be ideal to sell or lease the production rights to the right chain retailer.
TS : Research is a big part of my designs and understanding user needs are important as I am constantly trying to find solutions through my designs.
TS : No. Only frustrated users.
TS : Mainly car enthusiasts followed by mainstream car owners.
TS : Based on my research, I have not come across anything similar, hence its function itself addresses its individuality and uniqueness.
TS : It was important for the name to be relevant to the purpose and function of the product. It literally means pockets.
TS : Initial tools were the basics; pen, paper, rulers, measuring tape, sketch pads, art card. Eventually, it was adobe design software.
TS : The purpose of the product itself.
TS : Technologically driven, it is made using 100% Eco friendly and recycled materials and components.
TS : Yes. It was based on qualitative research. Questionnaires, comparative and competitive analysis, vigorous online searches, brick and mortar store visits, materials and components research.
TS : In the research phase, one of the main challenges was being discreet about the functionality of the product. Gathering insights and not giving away the idea was another big challenge. In the design phase, apart from keeping the product compact, lightweight and functional, the challenge was exploring various locking mechanisms that would function as a closing system as well as a hook. The material used for this component was essential to avoid any damage on the car while hanging on it.
TS : It was important to see where it stands as a product, its design, functionality and to gain an award winning status.
TS : I learnt that a lot of users share the same frustrating experience and I wanted to contribute to the development of such a product. I am glad I pursued it.
